With exactly two months until the Senators rugged winger is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent, there haven't been any discussions between GM Bryan Murray and Neil's agent Todd Reynolds since the season ended and none are planned.

Reynolds told Sun Media yesterday there is a gap to bridge if a deal is going to get completed and the ball is in Ottawa's court.

"You'll have to ask Bryan (when discussions will take place again). My understanding is I am to expect a phone call from Bryan," said Reynolds.

After making $1.1 million (all terms US) last season, Neil could make as much as $2.5 million on the open market, but Reynolds says his client could take less to stay in Ottawa.

Talk is the Senators offered a long-term deal worth $1.6 million per season, but even if Neil is willing to take a "hometown discount" there is still a significant difference between the two sides over the life of a four- or five-year contract.

"The key to getting a deal done is having two sides that want to make it happen," said Reynolds. "We have that element. Now, it's just finding something that works financially for both sides."

Murray is trying to find a way to make Neil fit under the salary cap. The club already has more than $48 million committed for next season, not leaving them a lot of wiggle room under the $56.7-million cap, which is expected to rise to the $58-million range.

The Senators would also like to keep centre Mike Comrie, but only if he's willing to accept a drop from the $4 million he made last season to $1.5 million. Goaltender Brian Elliott is a restricted free agent, but doesn't have much bargaining power.

Neil, a sixth-round pick of the Senators (No. 161 overall) in the 1998 draft, is coming off a difficult season. He had three goals and seven assists in 60 games and was out for an extended period with a lacerated calf.

The Senators considered dealing Neil at the trade deadline, but the San Jose Sharks backed away from a proposed deal. It's believed the Sharks and Maple Leafs would both show interest in Neil on the open market.